Duane Kaye Sanford

Duane Kaye Sanford, 85, of Traverse City passed away July 14, 2019 surrounded by his family.

Duane was born on October 26, 1933 in Shelby to the late Elmer and Wilma (Fleming) Sanford.

On August 19, 1961 Duane married Sonja Kay Erickson in Harrisville.

Duane served our country honorably in the United States Army.

Duane graduated from Pentwater High School. While in high school he his brother played outstanding basketball and baseball. He enrolled at Michigan Tech in Houghton and later transferred to Olivet College where he played baseball, was the editor of the Olivet College Newspaper earning his Bachelors Degree.

Duane worked for Michigan Bell for 14 years, at the CAP Computer Center for 21 years and at Lake States Insurance for 6 years.

Duane was a faithful and devoted member of The Presbyterian church since 1970. Here he sang in the choir and served as an ordained Elder.

Duane was active in local government serving on planning and zoning commissions for Green Lake township and the zoning and fire board for Blair Township. He was also the president of the Duck Lake Peninsula and Blair Valley Estates Homeowners Associations.

As a proud supporter of youth athletics, he coached youth baseball, and was the announcer for the Trojans and Bantam Travel Hockey team for many years. He was also a cub scout leader and member of the Oak Park Rotary Club and Interlochen Lions Club.

In his free time, Duane enjoyed gardening, particularly tending to his roses which he took great pride in. Music was also special to Duane. He was a fan of Andre Rieu, Richard Strauss Waltz's and often listened to Interlochen Public Radio. Fishing for salmon and trout was one of Duane's favorite past times as well. Above all else, he cherished his time with his children and grandchildren. They felt blessed they could be with him in his final days. He will be dearly missed.

Duane is survived by his wife of 57 years Sonja; sons Erik (Rose) Sanford and David (Bree) Sanford; and granddaughters Hailey, Madyson, Jaedyn, McKenna and Zoe; sisters-in-law Nancy and Luise and many nieces, nephews, and special cousins Margaret and Kay.

Duane was preceded in death by his siblings June, Ralph, Herbert, Leonard, Eileen and Judy.

The memorial service celebrating Duane's life will be held at the Presbyterian Church on Saturday, July 20, 2019 at 12 Noon with visitation beginning one hour prior. Interment will follow at the church Prayer Garden.

Memorial contributions in his honor may be directed to the Presbyterian Church.